425 with the Robin Engine ... good/bad

[FFC_Fencing]

We now use 422's in our business. I have always thought the 425 would be a much better because of the cold starting problems that we've had with our 422's. We are in need of another PT and I called to order a 425 only to find that they now also had Robin engines. Have they solved the cold starting problems? Anyone out there have a new 425 with the Robin?

 

[PowerTrom425]

Good morning Chuck,,,,,I have a 3 month old 425 with about 115 hours on it. I live in southern New Hampshire, and we've had a colder than normal fall, with morning temperatures on several occasions in the twenties. I have started the pt each morning even when now planning on using it just to check out the starting. Granted the twenties are just a hint of what's to come, but Henry has started up each time with a smile. I choke it fully, turn the engine over for 2 seconds, rest it for a half second, then turn it over again and she fires right up. I'm not sure if this is the best starting procedure, and I'm sure others will chime in with their 2 cents, but it works for me! Have a great Thanksgiving, and good luck with your purchase. Tom

 

[Charlie_Iliff]

As I recall, you and others got good results from the coil change on the Robin. Was that a short-lived fix?

 

[stray]

When I bought my 422 form Mckat, he said that it had cold starting problems until (under warranty) the STARTER was replaced with a larger one and the COIL was replaced with a larger one. My 422 has a 22 horse Robin.

 

[MuncyBob]

I've had some minor trouble starting on cold days...I may have the same problem as I have the same model/engine as you. Was this something you went through Power Trac on or through Robin?...I'll know for sure soon if I do indeed have a prolonged problem as ole man winter is knocking at the door! /forums/images/graemlins/frown.gif

 

[stray]

The person I bought my 422 had this work done. This is what he wrote and I Quote.
"This tractor was purchased in January 2003. The tractor was equipped with one of the Robin engines plagued with cold weather starting problems. I contacted the local Robin Engine Distributor, Sullivan Brothers located in my home town of Downingtown, PA, to perform the warranty work. The work was completed by a competent shop and the tractor has no starting issues"

 

[MossRoad]

So far, no one with a PT425 with a Robin engine has reported any starting issues, or any other issues, for that matter, that I know of. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

 

[PowerTrom425]

Chuck, I agree with MR. You can trust that if anyone was having problems with the new Robin engine on the 425's that it would have been discussed here, and more than likely solved! Now go put the turkey in the oven!! /forums/images/graemlins/smile.gif

 

[TanSprFarm]

I had some concern with the Robin at first but I have had no problems at all. The weather is not cold enough to verify cold weather starting. I happened to be at a large rental yard near us a month or so ago. I noticed they were changing out a blown Honda engine with a Robin. (It was smaller than a 25 but I don't recall the horse power.) I asked about it and they said they have had better performance, parts availability,and longevity from the Robins. I have always had high regard for Honda but they swear by Robin.

 

[pajoube]

That's a high recommendation for Robin. I tested a 425 with the Robin engine while attending the 2003 Expo in Louisville. I would be hard pressed to tell any difference between the Kohler or Robin.
PJ